Great article! Yes, patients need to ask questions but many times they are overwhelmed. However, sometimes when they do ask questions, the medical provider will be rude, dismissive, or act offended. Many people are afraid of making their medical provider mad. In addition, far too often, patients aren't given all the information they need to make true informed decisions thus consent. It is in the best interest of the medical system for patients to simply and blindly follow "doctor's orders". So many doctors and even hospitals invest much time and money into certain training and equipment and they want to make back their investment rather than giving information about other possible forms of treatment. This holds true on diagnosing patients as they have put much time and money into certain diagnostic equipment and need to recoup the associated costs. Patient education is so vitally important and thank you, Helene, for what you do.
I love this writer! This is a remarkably important topic, and one that will affect all of us at one point or another. Far too many people either feel intimidated or overwhelmed by the medical establishment and don't do enough to question, explore options, and demand answers- especially when the answer might be uncertainty.
Helene, great insights and I recall the advice in one of your other articles that's applicable here. Upon hearing a diagnosis, it's not a bad idea to then ask the doctor, "Is there anything else this could be?" This simple question could overcome some of issues mentioned in your piece--or a least lead to a richer dialogue.
Great article! Yes, patients need to ask questions but many times they are overwhelmed. However, sometimes when they do ask questions, the medical provider will be rude, dismissive, or act offended. Many people are afraid of making their medical provider mad. In addition, far too often, patients aren't given all the information they need to make true informed decisions thus consent. It is in the best interest of the medical system for patients to simply and blindly follow "doctor's orders". So many doctors and even hospitals invest much time and money into certain training and equipment and they want to make back their investment rather than giving information about other possible forms of treatment. This holds true on diagnosing patients as they have put much time and money into certain diagnostic equipment and need to recoup the associated costs. Patient education is so vitally important and thank you, Helene, for what you do.
Thank you Jeane for the important work YOU do in educating and empowering patients.
I love this writer! This is a remarkably important topic, and one that will affect all of us at one point or another. Far too many people either feel intimidated or overwhelmed by the medical establishment and don't do enough to question, explore options, and demand answers- especially when the answer might be uncertainty.
Thank you for the kind words, Roger.
Helene, great insights and I recall the advice in one of your other articles that's applicable here. Upon hearing a diagnosis, it's not a bad idea to then ask the doctor, "Is there anything else this could be?" This simple question could overcome some of issues mentioned in your piece--or a least lead to a richer dialogue.